Verbs: Can | Socioemotional Summary

Objectives

1. Recognize and understand the use of the verb 'can' to express abilities and permissions.

2. Develop the ability to use the verb 'can' assertively in various contexts.

Contextualization

Did you know that the verb 'can' is like a magic key in the English language? It not only opens doors to express your abilities, like in 'I can swim', but it is also essential for asking and granting permissions, such as in 'Can I go out?'. Mastering the use of 'can' helps improve communication and build healthier, more respectful relationships! 

Important Topics

Definition of the Verb 'Can'

The verb 'can' is a modal verb used in English to indicate ability, permission, and possibility. It is fundamental for communication as it helps us express what we are capable of doing or what is allowed in different contexts.

• Ability: 'I can run fast.'

• Permission: 'Can I go to the park?'

• Possibility: 'It can rain today.'

Using the Verb 'Can' to Express Ability

When we use 'can' to talk about what we are capable of doing, we are communicating our skills and competencies. This is essential for self-awareness as it helps us recognize our strengths and limitations.

• Example: 'She can speak three languages.'

• Importance: Recognizing our abilities allows us to have a clear view of our capabilities.

• Self-confidence: Expressing our ability assertively strengthens our self-confidence and self-esteem.

Using the Verb 'Can' to Ask for Permission

Asking for permission using 'can' is a way to show respect and consideration for established rules and the feelings of others. This helps us develop social skills and practice empathy.

• Example: 'Can I use your pen?'

• Respect: Asking for permission demonstrates respect for others' norms and space.

• Empathy: Understanding the other person's perspective and asking for permission when necessary is an exercise in empathy.

Key Terms

• Verb 'Can': A modal verb used to express ability, permission, and possibility.

• Ability: The skill or competence to perform an action.

• Permission: Consent or authorization to do something.

To Reflect

• How can the use of the verb 'can' help strengthen your interpersonal relationships?

• Do you feel confident when expressing your abilities? How can the use of 'can' influence that confidence?

• Can asking for permission using 'can' improve respect and collaboration in your school environment? Why?

Important Conclusions

• The verb 'can' is a powerful tool in the English language, allowing us to express abilities and ask for permissions clearly and respectfully.

• The correct use of 'can' helps us communicate our capabilities and understand and respect others' boundaries, strengthening our social skills.

• Mastering 'can' not only improves our communication in English but also reinforces important socio-emotional skills such as self-confidence, empathy, and respect.

Impact on Society

The verb 'can' has a direct impact on our daily lives, as it is widely used to communicate what we are capable of doing and to ask for permission. This can be seen in school contexts when we ask for permission to leave the classroom or at home when we request to go out or use something belonging to someone else. The ability to use 'can' correctly facilitates communication and helps avoid misunderstandings, promoting a more collaborative and harmonious environment.

In an emotional context, using 'can' helps express our abilities and limitations, which is essential for self-awareness and building healthy self-esteem. When we recognize and communicate our capabilities, we feel more confident and secure. Additionally, asking for permission using 'can' demonstrates respect for others, which strengthens our interpersonal relationships and helps us develop empathy and consideration for others.

Dealing with Emotions

To deal with emotions while studying the use of the verb 'can', I propose an exercise based on the RULER method. At home, take some time to reflect on how you feel when using the verb 'can'. Recognize your emotions while doing this: do you feel confident, insecure, anxious? Understand the causes of these emotions - perhaps it is the uncertainty about correct usage or fear of making mistakes. Name these emotions by identifying them clearly. Then, try to express them appropriately, either by writing about them or talking with someone you trust. Finally, work on regulating these emotions, finding ways to calm down and practice more, to gain confidence and improve your skills.

Study Tips

• Practice using 'can' in everyday situations. For example, ask your parents or teachers for permission using 'can' and observe how they respond.

• Create flashcards with examples of sentences that use 'can' to express abilities and ask for permissions. Review them regularly to reinforce your knowledge.

• Talk with friends or classmates in English and use 'can' to discuss your abilities or ask for things. This will help internalize the use of the verb naturally.